"We want to ensure that air travellers have a positive and secure travel experience this holiday season," said Kevin McGarr, CATSA President and CEO. "Getting the balance right between security and customer service is our priority."

EIA expects to welcome as many as 22,000 passengers per day in the days leading up to Christmas, an increase of almost 30%.

As they prepare for their trip, passengers should keep security in mind.

Delays at security checkpoints are often caused by passengers bringing items that are not permitted in their carry-on baggage.

Through its Pack Smart campaign, CATSA offers air travellers a number of tools so they can come to the airport better prepared. These tools include: a mobile website, an online Prep & Fly tool and a strong presence on travel industry websites.

CATSA is working with its partners to provide an airport experience that is respectful, efficient and secure. Whether travelling for business or personal reasons, Screening Officers will make every effort possible to ensure that the security screening process is completed as quickly and efficiently as possible.

- Travelling with children: The majority of security checkpoints at the major airports offer a Family/Special Needs security lane.

- Gifts, Toys and Batteries: Please do not wrap gifts. Their contents may need to be inspected. Toy weapons must be packed in your checked baggage. Check our website for more information on batteries.

- Liquids: Pack liquids, gels and aerosols, such as sunscreen, hair gel and perfume, in your checked baggage. Liquid items are only allowed in carry-on baggage when packed in containers with a capacity of 100 ml or less. The containers must fit comfortably in one clear, closed and re-sealable plastic bag with a capacity of no more than 1 litre. One bag per person is allowed.

- Cameras, Computers and Electronic Devices: Electronics items such as cell phones, smart phones, digital cameras, digital video cameras, PDAs, iPods, MP3 players, film cameras, and e-books remain in carry-on baggage. To minimize time spent at the screening point, remove portable computer and game console from their carrying case and place them in a tray. Electronic devices may be screened by special screening equipment.

- Food Products: Remember that certain food products such as maple syrup, jam, jellies and spread are considered liquids or gels. The liquid, aerosol and gel restrictions apply.

- Dress for Travel: Avoid wearing jewellery or other metal objects that could trigger an alarm and delay your trip. Remember, if you set off the alarm while walking through the metal detector you will have to undergo further screening to determine its source. This may include hand "wanding" and/or a physical search.

It is important to remember that all passengers have to go through airport security screening. Common courtesy and patience go a long way in making the process less stressful and more efficient for everyone.

For further information about 'packing smart' or permitted and non-permitted items, please visit www.catsa.ca.

CATSA, established on April 1, 2002, is a federal Crown corporation that operates on a not-for-profit basis. It is responsible for the provision of key aviation security services such as pre-board screening of passengers and their belongings; random screening of non-passengers; and the acquisition, deployment and maintenance of explosives detection equipment at airports. CATSA is also responsible for the development and implementation of a restricted area identity card incorporating biometric features.